Some call it the gateway to Africa. Others say it is endowed with rich culture. Several others say it is the safest and the most secured place to live. Some people describe its inhabitants as friendly and hospitable. Others commend the non-violent nature of the people.
For these reasons, many African-American students and European students alike continue to spend their summer holidays in the country for exchange educational programmes which afford them the opportunity to learn more about the rich culture and African politics.
Renford R Reese, a Political Science Director at the California State Polytechnic University, Pomona, USA and author of three books say there two places in Africa that African-Americans want to visit. He mentioned Ghana and South Africa and later added Egypt and Kenya for historic and tourism reasons.
According to the Political Science Professor, Ghana is a "beautiful country with a unique culture and beautiful people."
Prof Reese told The Statesman that Ghanaians have contributed greatly to the world's culture with regards to their smiles, dance, music and cultural cerebrations which have distinguished them from other Africans.
He is currently in the country as head of group of students from the California State Polytechnic University for an exchange programme with the University of Ghana, Legon. The programme was organised by the AYA Centre for Intercultural Awareness and Development, a single-purpose, multi-service organisation designed to enhance the learning experience and cultural awareness of persons traveling to Ghana.
Prof Reese told this reporter that the field study is geared towards inspiring his students to learn more about Ghana and variety of different cultures. This, he said is expected to change the stereotype and the negative perceptions that non- Africans have about the people of Africa.
The Political Science Professor further mentioned that Ghana has a competitive edge over her African counterparts because of its strong relationship with two super powers, namely, Britain and USA who after Independence has become Ghana's close ally.
According to him, Ghana being the first Sub-Saharan country to attain independence makes it a shinning light model for the rest of the African countries.
Kimberly Forkner, a Geography student told The Statesman that she is in the country to learn more about the physical aspect of Ghana including the climate, plants, animals, the tourism industry, geography and the rich culture.
Forkner said she is impressed about the physical layout of the city of Tema, the hub of Ghana’s industries. Tema was properly planned and built by the First President of Ghana, Dr Kwame Nkrumah. It lies at the centre of the world because the Greenwich Meridian passes through the city.
Rigo Estrada studies Political Science and has observed that Ghanaians are humble, outspoken and hardworking.
He expressed his surprise about the massive infrastructural development taking place in the country which contradicts the perceptions he had about Africans saddled with poverty.
Ryan EK is a Geography and Anthropology student. He stated that his coming to Ghana has broadened his knowledge and given him an idea about how other people live.
According to Ryan, Ghana has a reputation of being a stable country and that makes it unique in Africa.
Jesse stated that he was highly impressed with the performance of Ghana’s Senior National Team, the Black Stars during the Germany 2006 FIFA World Cup, and that raised the image of the country everywhere on the globe.
Fisscha Moges, a student of International Relations (African-American Studies) told The Statesman that he has been learning about African politics since he was 5 years old. Fisscha confirmed that Ghanaians are very proud of themselves and at the same time humble and patriotic. "Everywhere you go, you will see Ghana flag. It is visible everywhere," he added.
